Distracted driving has become a huge problem everywhere. Texas is no different as many people are involved in serious road accidents every single day as a result of drivers who are distracted while they are operating a vehicle. If you are involved in an accident due to a distracted driver, it’s important to know what to do, especially when planning to file a personal injury claim. One of the most important aspects of this is to NOT handle these cases alone, an experienced car accident attorney is the best way to properly represent your interests and help maximize your claim.
What is Distracted Driving?
Distracted driving is exactly what it sounds like: it occurs when a person is behind the wheel of their vehicle but not paying full attention to the road. They are doing something else while driving, which takes their focus away from properly operating the vehicle. There are three types of distracted driving, but each can increase one’s risk for an accident. They include the following:
- Cognitive: This type of distraction happens when your mind is focused elsewhere and not on actually driving
- Visual: This type of distraction occurs when you shift your eyes off the road even for only a few seconds
- Manual: This form of distraction takes place when you move your hands from the steering wheel while driving
Types of Injuries Stemming from Distracted Driving
There are numerous injuries you can suffer if you get into a road accident with a distracted driver. However, the following are the most common:
- Fractures and broken bones
- Head injuries
- Brain injuries
- Facial lacerations or disfigurement
- Paralysis
- Severed limbs
- Spinal cord injuries
Steps to Take After an Accident with a Distracted Driver
If you have been injured in a road accident involving a distracted driver, there are certain steps you should take. These are urgent and should be done as soon as possible:
- Call 911: You must call 911 to have emergency medical professionals and the police arrive at the scene to administer medical care and take an accident report. If you are injured and taken away in an ambulance, your attorney can later obtain a copy of the accident report for your evidence.
- Seek medical treatment: Getting medical treatment after a car accident should be your top priority. An experienced car accident attorney can assist you in obtaining the right medical tests and procedures from the proper medical professionals. These medical professionals will understand how to properly document your injuries so that it can help maximize your compensation.
- Contact a lawyer: Speaking with an experienced car accident attorney at your earliest convenience is essential. They will be able to assist you in all aspects of your accident.
- Talk to witnesses: If you are uninjured, you should get the names and contact information for all witnesses at the scene. You may also want to get their statements in writing or recorded. If you do not do this, your attorney will be able to track these witnesses down in order to properly document what happened at the time of the accident.
- Take pictures: Snap as many photos of the accident scene as you can. Taking video is also highly advised. If you are unable to do this at the time of the accident, your attorney will often be able to track down this evidence. They can also many time obtain video evidence from intersection video or nearby businesses.
- Document your injuries: Keep a journal and document your injuries and symptoms. Medical professionals that are recommended by your attorney will also know how to properly document all of this information.
When Should You Contact a Lawyer?
After a road accident with a distracted driver, it’s always wise to contact a car accident attorney. Even if your injuries seem mild shortly after the collision, the aftermath of such an accident can be complex. If you plan on filing a lawsuit, having a lawyer on your side makes all the difference in the world, especially if you have to go through an insurance company to receive compensation. You must contact an attorney if the following applies:
- You were seriously injured
- Your injuries warrant continuous medical care
- You need home health care
- The at-fault driver’s insurance company refuses to pay or offer a fair settlement
- The accident rendered you permanently disabled
Time is of the essence for contacting an attorney about your case. Depending on the specific facts surrounding the accident, your lawyer may have to investigate what occurred and go through your medical bills. If your settlement is due to come from the distracted driver’s insurance company, you must have a lawyer on your side.
Contacting Us
If you would like to speak with an experienced car accident attorney, please call our law offices today at any of our convenient locations and get a free consultation.
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